Are you concerned about persistent digestive symptoms in your child, such as chronic abdominal pain, trouble swallowing, or unexplained vomiting? Pediatric diagnostic endoscopy might be the procedure needed to understand and address these symptoms. Dr. Masood Tareen, whose clinic is at Yaseen Hospital in Quetta, provides pediatric diagnostic endoscopy services to accurately diagnose digestive issues in children. Call today or schedule an appointment to learn more about how this procedure can help.
Pediatric Diagnostic Endoscopy Q & A
What is Pediatric Diagnostic Endoscopy?
Pediatric diagnostic endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the doctor to view the inside of a child’s digestive tract using a thin, flexible tube with a camera (an endoscope). This tool can access the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine (in an upper endoscopy) or the large intestine (in a colonoscopy) to assess any abnormalities.
Common reasons for a pediatric endoscopy include:
- Chronic abdominal pain or discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing or acid reflux
- Unexplained nausea or vomiting
- Persistent diarrhea or bleeding from the digestive tract
Endoscopy can help diagnose conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or even infections and allergies.
When Should My Child Have an Pediatric Endoscopy?
If your child is experiencing persistent or severe digestive symptoms that aren’t improving with dietary changes or medication, your doctor may recommend an endoscopy to gain more insight. This procedure is especially useful when imaging tests alone cannot provide a full understanding of the problem.
Dr. Masood Tareen will evaluate your child’s symptoms and medical history to determine if an endoscopy is necessary.
What Can We Expect During a Pediatric Endoscopy?
An endoscopy is typically an outpatient procedure. Before the procedure, your child may need to fast for a few hours to ensure a clear view of the digestive tract. During the procedure, your child will be given a mild sedative or anesthesia to keep them comfortable. The endoscope is then carefully inserted to examine the necessary area, and the process usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.
After the endoscopy, your child may rest until the sedation wears off, and you’ll be able to take them home the same day. Most children recover quickly and can return to their usual activities within a day.
How Can Pediatric Endoscopy Be Used for Treatment?
Besides diagnosis, pediatric endoscopy can also treat certain conditions. Dr. Tareen may use the procedure to remove any polyps, take biopsies for further analysis, or even treat a specific issue, like narrowing of the esophagus.
For compassionate and accurate care for your child’s digestive health, call or schedule an appointment with Dr. Masood Tareen at Yaseen Hospital, Quetta. Let our team guide your family toward a solution for your child’s health and comfort.
